stephen

Be Happy and Feel Good

Watch The Ted Takj by Dr. Stephen Ilardi

The number of Americans with depression has increased dramatically over the last ten years. Depression is usually managed with medications and at present, one in five Americans is taking an antidepressant medication. A modality of depression treatment that is often overlooked is exercise. Daily movement has a restorative effect on brain health. For decades, we have known that bed rest, induced by illness or injury, can change our physiology in a fairly short amount of time. A sedentary lifestyle can have just as big an impact on how the brain functions. Take the time to watch Stephen Ilardi PhD *Ted Talk on the management of depression. If you have the time read the **article he wrote in the October 26, 2017 issue of the Wall Street Journal. Dr. Ilardi has some insight on how technology enhancements are making us unhappy.

Consistent exercise restores brain health, immunizes us from depression, and greatly reduces pain. Physical therapy patients and fitness clients frequently say the most beneficial aspect of a renewed devotion to exercise is the improvement in their mood. Hundreds of studies have demonstrated the positive effects exercise has on brain chemistry. All of the happiness and pain suppressing molecules antidepressant medications attempt to increase are developed and maintained sooner and stronger with exercise. Mood improving serotonin, dopamine, and BDNF–Miracle Gro for you neurons–all increase with exercise. Some of the most revealing research on pain science has shown that the brains “pain circuitry” changes when a patient is depressed. Pain is perceived as more intense, widespread, and emotionally challenging. Now put down your iphone and watch Dr. Ilardi.